tag day tomorrow.

Yesterday Committee of 25 administrative assistant Penelope Powell brought Hamilton Lions up to date on the charity's efforts over the past 40 years.

"The Committee of 25 was started in 1952 and it worked on really big projects such as the hospital for children in Dockyard, and the Opportunity Workshop,'' she said. "Now we concentrate on the individual child.

"We purchase wheelchairs, braces, computers to aid in speech therapy, and all kinds of specialised equipment for physically challenged children, including hearing aids.'' Mrs. Powell said more than $125,000 was given out last year. And the charity has already had paid out close to that amount this year.

The Bargain Box on Midsea Lane, Pembroke which sells items such as clothing, tools, books and kitchenware, is the charity's main source of income.

Over the past 22 years the shop has raised over $500,000.

Tomorrow's tag day, dubbed Handicapped Children's Day, is the Committee's most important annual fundraising event.

The proceeds will help to support more than 50 children, some of whom will receive help from the organisation until the age of 21 and others who need emergency help.

Mrs. Powell said 100 percent of the money raised went to benefit the children and that all workers are volunteers.

Penelope Powell Graphic file name: POWELL